As places to go and study go Aberystwyth is one of the friendliest and safest place to do so. Starting university should be an amazing experience and Freshers should only be unforgettable for the right reasons!
As well as our Aber SU A-team being able to support and answer your questions during your first week. Here are some useful contacts and top tips you can use to help you stay safe:
Useful Contacts
24/7 Campus Life Helpline
If you have any problems in your room or flat, e.g. you are locked out, unwell, need a repair or have a problem with a neighbour, then staff are on hand at the University Reception 24 hours a day.
Telephone: 01970 622900
AberSU Advice Service
AberSU Advice Service provides free, confidential and impartial advice and information for all Aberystwyth University students. Whatever the issue, if you are unsure what to do contact us. We will do our best to find a solution and if not may be able to signpost you to someone that can.
Contact an Advisor
Top-Tips
Drink safely
Use common sense when accepting drinks from people you don’t know and never leave your own drink unattended. If you encounter any problems with this, remember that a member of staff will be able to help out. Free water is available behind any bar so keep this in mind when pacing yourself.
Sexual heath
For some, coming to University provides a great opportunity to explore sex and sexuality. But staying safe and keeping your partner(s) safe is also an important part of the process. The Students’ Union provides access to free condoms and sanitary protection for anyone in need.
Drugs
Drugs affect the brain, which in turn affects the mood of the person taking them. There are different types of drugs, which affect users in different ways. Talk to Frank (www.talktofrank.com) has a complete A-Z of drugs and their effects.
Spiking
Nationally we are aware there has been an increase in spiking incidents over the last few years. We would advise our students to stay safe by avoiding accepting drinks/vapes from other people whilst out to minimise the risk of this happening to you or your friends. More information can be found on our Campaigns webpage here.
Getting home
Stick together, we suggest you stick with your new friends and don’t travel home alone while you get used to your new surroundings. While the campus and accommodation is a short walk from town keep a taxi number handy just in case.
Respect the Water
Living by the coast is one of the many great benefits to studying in Aberystwyth but it can also be a potential danger. Almost 200 people year lose their lives each year on UK and Irish coasts each year, an over half never even planned to enter the water. So make sure you are aware of the potential risks and if you see someone else in trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Zero Tolerance
The Students’ Union has a zero tolerance policy towards Bullying and Harassments with all reports taken seriously. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment which everyone is able to participate freely. We work with colleagues in the University and have an online reporting system which can be completed anonymously or by a third-party.
Like it, lock it keep it!
Keep your valuables locked in your room or safely stored away and remember to lock doors and windows whenever you are out. Consider registering your valuables for free with www.immobilise.com – improving the return of items in the event of loss or theft.
Look out for each other
Aberystwyth is a great place to enjoy a night out with new friends. Make sure to look after them as you would want to be looked after yourself to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Above all else, have an amazing time at University here in Aberystwyth!
Reviewed: September 2023